One morning I woke up and I knew you were really gone
A new day, a new way and new eyes to see the dawn
Go your way, I'll go mine, carry on

The sky is clearing and the night has gone out
The sun, he come, the world is all full of love
Rejoice, rejoice, we have no choice but to carry on

The fortunes of fables are able to sing the song
Now witness the quickness with which we get along
To sing the blues you've got to live the tunes and carry on

Carry on love is coming
Love is coming to us all

"Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young - Carry On"

Couldn´t have worded my feelings about this better myself.

Have posted here before a long time ago when it all started for me and have been looking for permanent relief since. Anyway here now to post some hope.

To recap, male, 43Y, slightly overweight. Clusters started a few years back during summer. Detected and diagnosed because of the link with alcohol. Unilateral pain on the left side of the head and eye. I´ve been hanging on without any medication since which at times was really, really hard.

I´ve been looking for a consistent way to stop an attack ever since, and this summer it seems I have finally found one. My friends used to be strong coffee and tobacco, but I have a new best friend. Here goes, I hope I can word it all correctly.

As you will probably agree upon, summer time is bad for us. Dunno something with the change of season and the heat surely. In my case it meant a visit from my otherwise practically dormant demon, at the rate of three times a night. Sleep 2 hours - awake 45 minutes in agony - sleep 2 hours - awake 45 minutes in agony - sleep two hours - awake 45 minutes in agony. If I had a gun I probably would have shot myself at a certain point in time, luckily I do not have a gun.

By chance I found that if I got my left arm stretched out (I was clutching the window) I shaved off a pain point within minutes. Continuing this I started experimenting with my arms stretched out above my head and found the following exercise will stop an attack of any severity within minutes.

You wake up during the night in agony, grab your handkerchief and follow me.

1) Stand up straight immediately and look straight ahead.
2) Stretch out your arms to the max right over your head and make fists (one of your hands holds your handkerchief)
3) Bend your arms so your fists come together right over the top of your head
4) Gently touch the top of your head with the thumbs of your fists and immediately...
5) Pump (don´t throw) out your arms straight over your head, keeping your fists clenched

The outward motion is quick, inward is slow. Visualize a pump - you are pumping blood from your head to your arms - and continue for one or two minutes. Now stop and blow your nose thoroughly, long and hard.

Relief? If no, start at 1) again. You will know the end of the attack is near once your nose on the side of the attack starts to open, and there is actually something exiting from your nostril as opposed to just air.

What am I saying: you will know it in an instant.

If your arms are down and you are still 6 or 7 on the pain scale you must start again to avoid lingering shadows.

Doing this in front of a mirror I have seen my left eye go from alien red to an almost healthy white within two minutes. There are some variations to this, but the main thing is the pump motion.

Now, normally I would like any other summer accept my faith and suffer for six to eight weeks during my sleep as mentioned previously. But... Ever since doing this the attacks are actually DIMINISHING in frequency.

It has now been ten days before my last sleepless night and the attacks are completely gone (first time during summer in two years). I have been pumping for about a month now, and I have decided to post this because it has consistently helpt me. I will continue and report on the general state of recurrence.

Here is my list of what NOT to do. In my case any of this prolongues an attack.

Do NOT stroke or rub your head in any way. Do not obstruct the blood flow by rubbing your temple, eye, cheek or neck. Bad idea. Does work for about ten seconds - the pain will come back worse and linger for over an hour.

Do NOT force the blood to your head by holding your head between your knees. I used to think this was part of the solution but it is not. It will in most cases prolongue an attack.

Do NOT sit, do NOT lie down.

It is OK to wander around when pumping though. We all know at times the pain is absolute, and cannot be bargained with (9-10). Still, to give you some hope, I had a rare factor ten (blinding pain where your eye is shut and your environment becomes a blur) during the night a while back after celebrating and overconfidently had some beers. (U-huh). I got up, staggered to the bathroom and did the routine. You know, a factor 10 is nothing but a factor 7 which escalated because you did not wake up in time. In my case I was simply too intoxicated to wake up earlier. Sad but true. However it took me no more than five minutes to go from 10 to absolute zero. No shadows, no nothing. Now I can live with THAT after such a sinful evening.

I´m hoping this will bring relief to some of you too, and hopefully some of you can get rid of the chemicals you have been taking, that would be the biggest win. If the frequency of the attacks keeps diminishing, why not get rid of them all together? Now that would be something. Please let me know how you get along with this.

One more thing, you can do this seated or lying in bed too, although it works best standing up straight. Lying down or sitting it just takes a little longer for the pain to stop.

Good luck and feedback welcome.

The Spaniard.

This sounds very strange. ???
Sandra

Yes, it sounds strange.
But as long as it is working for him and he's happy with the results...

Oliver

Hi Spaniard,

This sounds like another variation on the exercise theme.  Many others report relief from jogging or doing pushups.  Whatever diverts blood flow to the extremities and away from the head.

I'm glad you've found something that works for you.

-Dennis-

I stick with verapamil (as preventative) and oxygen as abortive.

Have you tried these?


                     [smiley=smokin.gif]

DennisM1045 wrote on Jul 21^st, 2008 at 8:27am:

This sounds like another variation on the exercise theme.  Many others report relief from jogging or doing pushups.  Whatever diverts blood flow to the extremities and away from the head.

Agreed.

It's interesting how different our approaches to handling an attack are.  

A long time ago, I used to exert myself considerably during an attack (mostly thrashing around, pacing rapidly, pounding on walls, etc.) until I figured out that I was increasing the intensity of the attack by reacting violently to it.  

Deliberately engaging in some sort of physical activity during an attack is probably different than what I was doing with all my thrashing.  Mine was more like the "fight or flight" response was triggered, with nowhere to go.  After all, you can't fight with the thing, and you can't run away--so you're left with rapid, shallow breathing, increased muscle tension, and increased blood flow.  All of that is bad during an attack, and seems to make things worse.

A lot of the effort I put into fighting the thing nowadays is directed toward controlling my reactions to a hit, calming myself, reducing my anxiety, slowing my heartbeat and breathing, and reducing my physical activity during an attack to near zero.  

Nevertheless, I've seen enough people on here who find relief in strenuous exercise during a hit to convince me that for some it is a worthwhile approach.  I couldn't bear it myself.

Best wishes,

George  

Simple...never relax, ever.
thebb

Spaniard - I admire your fortitude. But if what you're doing should ever fail you, I'd strongly recommend you try oxygen therapy as a backup. It doesn't work for everyone but if you can get it - and there are virtually no side effects - it's amazing.

But hey, if what you're doing works, I'm all in favor of it! I've been using Topamax during my now-completing cycle. But next time I get a hit that I can't prevent I'll certainly give your Spanish Pump a try.

David

Before I knew of other CHers, that's you guys, people 'd tell me to lie down during a hit. Probably because that's what a migraine sufferer does. But I couldn't, simply couldn't. It has always puzzled me. Why did I rock back and forth on the side of my bed, instead of lying down, why did I shake my legs in an upbeat rhythm? Maybe it soothed me somehow, maybe it made the blood flow differently?

What about the nasty ones? The ones that make you crawl, hit your head with your fists, punch your neck, pace through every room in the house, makes you thrown yourself to the floor or the sofa, while clutching your head with all your strength, only to get up again a few seconds later to march again. Why? I really don't know. All I knew it served a purpose. Somehow it helps to get through a hit, and this probably does so for you Spaniard. Whatever helps, do it.

Wishing you painfree days soon from the Netherlands.

Pascal.

maalstroom wrote on Jul 21^st, 2008 at 2:41pm:

why did I shake my legs in an upbeat rhythm?

Mebbee because you got da reggae beat in you, mahn. ;D

Spaniard - Pump on, dude! Any port in a storm.

Haha not quite Brew. It was more of a grindcore or deathmetal blastbeat.

Quote:

I stick with verapamil (as preventative) and oxygen as abortive. Have you tried these?

No, I have not. I have an aversion against the medical community and prescription drugs.


Quote:

Nevertheless, I've seen enough people on here who find relief in strenuous exercise during a hit to convince me that for some it is a worthwhile approach.  I couldn't bear it myself.

Well, this is not at all strenuous. Why not give it a try? All it will do is make your arms a little tired. The key is to re-route the blood away from your head asap. It´s really simple and has profound effects.


Quote:

But hey, if what you're doing works, I'm all in favor of it! I've been using Topamax during my now-completing cycle. But next time I get a hit that I can't prevent I'll certainly give your Spanish Pump a try.

Great! Let me know.


Quote:

What about the nasty ones? The ones that make you crawl, hit your head with your fists, punch your neck, pace through every room in the house, makes you thrown yourself to the floor or the sofa, while clutching your head with all your strength, only to get up again a few seconds later to march again. Why? I really don't know. All I knew it served a purpose. Somehow it helps to get through a hit, and this probably does so for you Spaniard. Whatever helps, do it.

I feel that. After the first year or so I found that staying as calm as possible during an attack (which takes tremendous amounts of self discipline and strength) reduces the intensity of the attack considerably. Just use a calm and calculated approach. Easy enough to say, but hard to do, I know. Get the blood away from your head. Simply raising your arms as high as you can and holding them there for as long as you can brings fast relief (but not as good as the pump).

Remember to blow that nose.

Thanks for the replies!

AlienSpaceGuy wrote on Jul 21^st, 2008 at 10:05am:

oxygen as abortive.

Just about O2, I have nothing against it, but I am too lazy to go to the local MD, get a referral to a Neurologist in Alicante to get the O2.

Simply cannot be bothered. Maybe not enough KIP-9+´s lately.

Good Grief   :P

 Thanks for the advice on the pump, i will definitly give it a try. I will try just about anything to keep from havin to drink 2 cups of coffee at 2 or 3 am.
 For the people that don't know caffein is a awsome aborter. I found i can drink 2 cups and be pain free in as little as 5 minutes. For the real bad headaches (8+) i take one or two BC powders with the coffee. It will make you jittery but as any Ch sufferer knows, you'll do anything to aliviate the pain.

 Oh by the way, thanks a million for everyone involved in this website, users and creator alike. I found it just today after 5 years of suffering and not knowing what the hell was happening. When i read the first 3 posts i got goose bumbs. Describing to the T my syptoms and telling me what the doctor couldn't. I love all you guys like family, it's good to know i'm not alone now. I wish everyone a pain free day, and i look forward to talking to people that feel my pain.

                                       Greg
                               

Greg wrote on Jul 21^st, 2008 at 8:58pm:

I will try just about anything to keep from havin to drink 2 cups of coffee at 2 or 3 am.  For the people that don't know caffein is a awsome aborter.

Isn´t it just? It saved my ass I tell ya. Anyway, day 11 of uninterrupted sleep now, feel better every day.

I forgot to mention I started a routine at bedtime of holding out my arms pointing them at the ceiling when flat on my back when going to sleep. I hold as long as I can which is about 5 minutes. Don´t know if it is just supersticion but no shadows when falling asleep and no middle of the night adventures. I do still have shadows during the day because I am still very much in my cycle. No pain though and that´s the most important fact to me.

I´ll get some Taurine in later in the day (2 x Red Devil) which should take care of the shadows as well. (See, forgot about that until I read about it here, this board is excellent for reminding yourself of things you can do.) Must visit more often from now on...

Thanks for sharing Greg, please let me know how you get along with the arms.

Thanks spaniard woke up at 3 am, an hour and ten minutes ago with a pacer...  immediatly did the arm pump. It took the edge off definitly, enough to were i could make a cup of coffee.  I appreciate the advice and wish your pain free days an nights to continue. Well i'm pretty exausted, even after drinkin that coffee. Goin back to sleep hopefully i'll make it through the night uniterrupted.

Quote:

Goin back to sleep hopefully i'll make it through the night uniterrupted.

Melatonin. 3 to 9 mg daily :o
Helps with the nightime hits.
Sorry Spaniard, been there done that, and many variants thereof.
Dont work for me. Wish it did. :-/
all the best
thebb
Pharmacutical alternative:
clusterbusters.com

Greg wrote on Jul 23^rd, 2008 at 4:16am:

Thanks spaniard woke up at 3 am, an hour and ten minutes ago with a pacer...  immediatly did the arm pump. It took the edge off definitly

That´s great! Glad to see at least some results...

You have to be consistent, and not give up too soon, even though the pain is tremendous. Just continue, breathe, blow nose, continue breathe blow nose, etc...

I woke up after a noon nap yesterday with a solid 8, the end of my painfree spell after almost two weeks. I jumped up and out to the bathroom, did the routine and after about twelve minutes was down to acceptable 2/3. Shadows went after cup of strong coffee.

Again, this is good enough for me, as opposed to pacing, banging, crying and escalating all over the place.

Like these guys who posten on YouTube, I cannot understand them remaining seated during 9-10. I wish they would try NOT to block the artories or push against the eye, but rather raise both arms (at least) and pump them.

Ah well...

wrote on Jul 23^rd, 2008 at 1:13pm:

[quote]been there done that, and many variants thereof. Dont work for me. Wish it did. :-/

Hi thebbz,

I thought you had positive permanent results using hallucogenics, or was that someone else? BTW, I will probably like Greg try Psilocybe cubensis at some point in time to see if it gives long term relief.

In any case sorry to hear the pump (or rerouting of the blood flow) did not work for you. It truly does wonders for me, it feels like a power tool and brings so much confidence and relief.

I finally have something to fight the demon...

There are more things that bring (some) relief, but this is the best non-medical I have found. If it helps only one further individual this was worth the post...

[quote author=1C3D1F3D2037111A520 link=1216631845/0#19 date=1216914501
If it helps only one further individual this was worth the post...


[/quote]

Agreed!

The Spaniard wrote on Jul 21^st, 2008 at 6:58pm:

AlienSpaceGuy wrote on Jul 21st, 2008 at 10:05am: oxygen as abortive. Just about O2, I have nothing against it, but I am too lazy to go to the local MD, get a referral to a Neurologist in Alicante to get the O2. Simply cannot be bothered. Maybe not enough KIP-9+´s lately.

        Yer too lazy to get o2?  Maybe yer a meegrainer.

                    Potter

Potter wrote on Jul 24^th, 2008 at 11:55am:

Yer too lazy to get o2?  Maybe yer a meegrainer.

Nope, quite sure I´m not a "meegrainer". Wish I was, because treatment would be soooo much easier.

See yer.

Heh heh.

The Spaniard wrote on Jul 24^th, 2008 at 12:05pm:

Potter wrote on Jul 24th, 2008 at 11:55am:         Yer too lazy to get o2?  Maybe yer a meegrainer. Nope, quite sure I´m not a "meegrainer". Wish I was, because treatment would be soooo much easier. See yer. Heh heh.

     What is easier than oxygen?  You waste all this time and energy promoting the hokey pokey, yet you are without the preferred treatment.  I surmise you are, as you say, just lazy.

         Potter

Quote:

I thought you had positive permanent results using hallucogenics, or was that someone else?

No that is me, In my third year. My relief has come after 25 years of many many doctors and neurologists wearing out their pen on perscriptions, and many many failed attempts at relief using stupid tecniques and remedies your describing. One of the physical mechanisms of CH is vascular. It is no secret that cardiovascular stimulation can provide temporary relief. It is just that temporary. The next hit will come, can your technique stop that? Some people report an increase in pain using these techniques. Had you done some research you would have known that.
Caffeine is your abort. The rest is in your head.
Come on Spaniard get real. GET 02
IMHO
thebb :)

Potter wrote on Jul 24^th, 2008 at 12:33pm:

What is easier than oxygen?

Pumping your arms, maybe?

But hey, who´s forcing you? This is not a treatment contest, is it?

Whatever works for you my friend...

wrote on Jul 24^th, 2008 at 12:40pm:

[quote]The next hit will come, can your technique stop that? Some people report an increase in pain using these techniques. Had you done some research you would have known that. Caffeine is your abort. The rest is in your head. Come on Spaniard get real. GET 02 IMHO thebb :)

Well, the abort is quite real for me, but again, each his own. Içm not going to drag around O2 bottles unless I have too.

Thanks.

Quote:

This is not a treatment contest, is it?

These are treatments ;)
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What you have is an antidote. An old one at that. :o
all the best
thebb :D

How much is a non rebreather and a tank without insurance? and does anyone know how i could get imitrex for under 240$ for 9 pills (was just perscribed by the doctor today). Thanks and i wish a pain free day to us all.


                            Greg

Greg, here's a link to a Canadian pharmacy and their imitrex page - brand and generic. think you'll find the prices much much better. All you have to do is fax them your prescription, although it can take a couple of weeks to get the goods:

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As for O2.... like many here I use a welder's tank. At least locally in Los Angeles I was able to buy quite a big one - think it's about 80 cubic feet - and a regulator for about $300. I figure it's a good investment, and fills are only 18 bucks. The masks are fairly cheap I think at some websites. I got mine from my good friends at the local fire station!

Hope this helps.
David

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search ebay for regulators ect...Medical 02 prices can vary. Welders 02 is cheaper. I have a couple of NRB mask's if you cant find one let me know.
thebb :) :)

Thanks a million bb. Ill look it up and get back with you... I am pretty broke these days. The doctor visits (200$) and the imitex (240$) hurt me pretty good. But on the bright side i havn't even had a shadow since yestday after after drinkin jungle juice ;D. Thats what i call it.. Tee Hee Hee ;D

Ok i added it up 16.50$ for mask accessories, 21.95$ for a regulator and 91.87$ for a 40 cf welding tank. For a total of 130.32$. Sound about right? Supprisingly cheaper than i thought.  ;)

The Spaniard wrote on Jul 21^st, 2008 at 6:58pm:

AlienSpaceGuy wrote on Jul 21st, 2008 at 10:05am: oxygen as abortive. Just about O2, I have nothing against it, but I am too lazy to go to the local MD, get a referral to a Neurologist in Alicante to get the O2. Simply cannot be bothered. Maybe not enough KIP-9+´s lately.

Hi Spaniard,

I can appreciate your general comments. Hey, I'll try anything and something new intrigues me. That's why we are here...

Now, the comment above, that's way beyond what I can fathom. From 1982 til 1985 I had no idea what was wrong with me and neither did multiple doctors. I went through DAILY multiple 9's that had me questioning my ability to remain sane AND alive. When I finally found O2 (through the then National Migraine Foundation and now the National Headache Foundation my life was literally saved).

Holy shit, I CAN deal with this nightmare and all it takes is a metal cylinder of O2 and the right mask!!!! LIFE CHANGING my friend.

I find the comment above highly offensive. There are no lazy clusterheads. Life is already a bitch, add CH and it is infinitely worse. There are hundreds, perhaps thousands here who have found relief through O2. The least side effects with the most efficacy of ANYTHING

Can't be "bothered" to try. Perhaps the dumbest thing I've ever seen on this board. Criminy, I'm holding my tongue in disbelief...

Jon

Thanks for the link on the pharmacy David. It outta save me a truck load  :)

You're welcome, Greg. That's only one of the more prominent pharms from our great friends to the north. If you've got time you might try a search of canadian online pharmacies.... I just tried 2 or 3 back when I was looking for a place to get cheap(er) Lipitor. You may even be able to beat that price!

D

Nice!!

I just realized why my imitrex cost so much... I paid for a name  :-?  
MFG. Glaxo Smith Kline. They are pretty to look at though lol. Wish they had the Generic at my pharmacy, they're about half the price according to the sites i looked at.

Yes, the generics are of course cheaper. Personally I've never found any difference and always look for them for any drug if they're available. With Imitrex I've had both and the generic worked equally well for me.

In my experience, as mass market US pharmacies go, if you can get to a Costco you'll generally find better prices - and you don't need to be a member to fill prescriptions there. But if you're paying out of your own pocket, north of the border is certainly the way to go.

D

Greg,

If you decide to go with medical 02  and the e-tanks...I will send you a regulator and several non-rebreather masks.  Just let me know in a PM , o.k.?

As far as I know Imitrex is not available in a generic as of yet.  We've been waiting for years, but I don't think their patent expires until next year.

Linda

Wow... Linda, you're a superstar!

However I beg to differ on generic Imitrex, at least in pill form. I'm in possession of a box of Sandoz Sumatriptan, 100 mg that I got through the Canadian pharmacy I referenced above. No idea about the injectable since I've never used it.

That's a great thing you're doing for Greg.

David

Balanchine wrote on Jul 25^th, 2008 at 5:57pm:

Wow... Linda, you're a superstar! However I beg to differ on generic Imitrex, at least in pill form. I'm in possession of a box of Sandoz Sumatriptan, 100 mg that I got through the Canadian pharmacy I referenced above. No idea about the injectable since I've never used it. That's a great thing you're doing for Greg. David

That's because you got it from Canada.  In the US, when a company makes something they get a patent.  The patent says that no one else can make that for so long, basically allowing that company to make a ton of money.  Not sure how long it is for medicine, but I heard that imitrex generic is supposed to come out sometime this year or next.  

You are all right.. The cheapest i been able to find it (without ordering hundreds) is in Canada at about 9 bucks a pop. And they are generic brand. I just took my first one today and it was a pleasure. I am reluctant to take them because i spent nearly 27$ a piece but at least now i know they'll work for me. I appreciate all the useful info guys and its always a pleasure talking to my fellow clusterheads. I wish you all PF days and look forward to talkin with you again.
                                    Greg

Thanks for the offer Linda, you are very kind. If its not too much trouble i will accept. I added you to my buddies and will PM you when i see you online. I believe it will save me money in the long run if i could use the 02 as opposed to the imitrex.

The 02 is more compatible with busting as well. You cant take imitrex and bust. All the best
thebb :)

jon019 wrote on Jul 24^th, 2008 at 10:20pm:

Holy shit, I CAN deal with this nightmare and all it takes is a metal cylinder of O2 and the right mask!!!! LIFE CHANGING my friend.

Jon, I´m happy O2 works for you (a chronic CH).

Myself I am episodic, 6 week cycles a few times a year only nights.

Been coping quite well using coffee, and recently found a way to stop attacks without use of coffee, hence the post.

If nothing would work surely I would go for O2, my remark was in no way demeaning O2, just it is not the way for me, as I have found another way to abort attacks which (from what I understand) is even quicker than O2. Hence the "cannot be bothered".

Again, I´m genuinely happy O2 is working for you the way it does, and if I offended you or anyone else this was far from my intention.

My post was only intended to share my experience with relief through rerouting blood to the arms, nothing more, nothing less.

It is a pity to see it has been mis-interpreted all together.

It is also a pity to see that apparantly on this board threads can be hi-jacked and posters can be attacked for their opinion (and I do NOT mean you by that).

A real pity. This board needs a good moderator, or a new board needs to be created where opinions and theories can be discussed openly without the static. (again this does not pertain to you).

The method as described in my first post works FOR ME. No matter what anyone else says or does, it works for me, and I know that because I AM me.

And MY opinion is that methods for abortion or prevention of cluster headache attacks which do not involve any medication (I include medical O2 in that group) are and should be well preferred over any other method.

I´m sure we all just love Big Med like Pfizer, heck as far as I know they may even be on this board promoting their products. It sure does feel like it.

In any case I shared my experience, what the reader does with it is up to him or her ofcourse. Please PM me if you would like help in any way with the abortive technique.

I wish all the longest of PF times-

The Spaniard wrote on Jul 28^th, 2008 at 2:12pm:

jon019 wrote on Jul 24th, 2008 at 10:20pm: Holy shit, I CAN deal with this nightmare and all it takes is a metal cylinder of O2 and the right mask!!!! LIFE CHANGING my friend. Jon, I´m happy O2 works for you (a chronic CH). Myself I am episodic, 6 week cycles a few times a year only nights. Been coping quite well using coffee, and recently found a way to stop attacks without use of coffee, hence the post. If nothing would work surely I would go for O2, my remark was in no way demeaning O2, just it is not the way for me, as I have found another way to abort attacks which (from what I understand) is even quicker than O2. Hence the "cannot be bothered". Again, I´m genuinely happy O2 is working for you the way it does, and if I offended you or anyone else this was far from my intention. My post was only intended to share my experience with relief through rerouting blood to the arms, nothing more, nothing less. It is a pity to see it has been mis-interpreted all together. It is also a pity to see that apparantly on this board threads can be hi-jacked and posters can be attacked for their opinion (and I do NOT mean you by that). A real pity. This board needs a good moderator, or a new board needs to be created where opinions and theories can be discussed openly without the static. (again this does not pertain to you). The method as described in my first post works FOR ME. No matter what anyone else says or does, it works for me, and I know that because I AM me. And MY opinion is that methods for abortion or prevention of cluster headache attacks which do not involve any medication (I include medical O2 in that group) are and should be well preferred over any other method. I´m sure we all just love Big Med like Pfizer, heck as far as I know they may even be on this board promoting their products. It sure does feel like it. In any case I shared my experience, what the reader does with it is up to him or her ofcourse. Please PM me if you would like help in any way with the abortive technique. I wish all the longest of PF times-

 Here ya go sport.  It's been a pleasure.

                  Potter
  Modified to add STFU
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Quote:

A real pity. This board needs a good moderator, or a new board needs to be created where opinions and theories can be discussed openly without the static.

Let us know when you've finished re-arranging the furniture, eh?   ;D

Spaniard,
I believe the boys are letting you know, this is a Clusterhead forum. DJ, our fearless leader, chooses NOT to act as the usual moderator. As you know, Clusterheads can be tired, in pain, feeling low, and even  downright depressed. You, too, might find something you read here to be complete bunk, and you may say that.........the point is, in Clusterville, everyone says exactly what they mean.
Your post is a very interesting one....and there will be people who try it and are grateful that you have done this research, coz it just might be of help. They will acknowledge that, and thank you. Please don't be put off by those who are more blunt.......and allow everyone to say what they will.
There's an expression around here........"take what you need and leave the rest".......although I prefer harmony over discord, once I GOT this expression it made perfect sense to me. These same people who have offended you could very well be the ones who step up to give you help when you are in need.that's the Clusterhead family. Thank you, Spaniard, for your efforts in tuning this abortive. I'm certain others will be around to give it a try, and, hopefully, they will give you helpful feedback.  
Till then, I wish you MORE PF!
Cathi :) :)

Spainard,

I'm a 37 year episodic clusterhead.  6 or 8 years back I experimented like you and tried doing squats at the first signs of an attack.  After 30-40 squats (took me about 1 minute to do) I'd sit in my cluster chair and breath deeply.  The attack would abort in 5-7 minutes.  I've got a cluster friend who can jump on his exercise bike and abort attacks.  When I fist signed the guestbook ob this site, about 8 1/2 years ago, the guy before me said he ran up the hill behind his house and when he got to the top, no more cluster.

There are many examples of streneous exercise, at the beginning of an attack, aborting it.

The nice part is no meds, no O2, no shrooms, NADA!

Now I'm old, fat and lazy so I suck O2 with good results.

great post. since i drive a truck i am limited by how much o2 i can carry. i can't always (if ever) find o2 in rawlings wyoming or sandpoint idaho. although i prefer to be alone during a heavy cycle, i don't like to get too far from an o2 supply. thanks for posting this. you should do a youtube video. ;)

-johnny- wrote on Jul 28^th, 2008 at 10:29pm:

great post. since i drive a truck i am limited by how much o2 i can carry. i can't always (if ever) find o2 in rawlings wyoming or sandpoint idaho. although i prefer to be alone during a heavy cycle, i don't like to get too far from an o2 supply. thanks for posting this. you should do a youtube video. ;)

   Yep pretty tough.
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The Spaniard wrote on Jul 28^th, 2008 at 2:12pm:

jon019 wrote on Jul 24th, 2008 at 10:20pm: Holy shit, I CAN deal with this nightmare and all it takes is a metal cylinder of O2 and the right mask!!!! LIFE CHANGING my friend. Jon, I´m happy O2 works for you (a chronic CH). Thank you. I see that you have been doing your research. Much appreciated. I too was episodic for 20+yrs. My worst nightmare was to become chronic (you will find others here who dispute that). Anyway, I have  Korean friend who says "be careful what you wish for BUT, more importantly, what you DREAD, cuz it WILL happen". She is wiser than she will ever know, but I now believe. Myself I am episodic, 6 week cycles a few times a year only nights. Been there, it's a bitch, aint it? Been coping quite well using coffee, and recently found a way to stop attacks without use of coffee, hence the post. Like I said, a new idea?, bring it on, I've tried 'em all...That it works for you is wonderful...present as such, and sit back and see... If nothing would work surely I would go for O2, my remark was in no way demeaning O2, just it is not the way for me, as I have found another way to abort attacks which (from what I understand) is even quicker than O2. Hence the "cannot be bothered". The tone and intent are notoriously difficult to perceive in an email. What I precieved from yours pissed me off.. and, "cannot be bothered" is blatantly obvious... Again, I´m genuinely happy O2 is working for you the way it does, and if I offended you or anyone else this was far from my intention. Good, thank you, and you did...stick around, you may need us... My post was only intended to share my experience with relief through rerouting blood to the arms, nothing more, nothing less. Again, I appreciate new ideas, keep 'em coming... It is a pity to see it has been mis-interpreted all together. Nope, not so, your idea was not misinterpreted, it was the attitude that colored everything you said... It is also a pity to see that apparantly on this board threads can be hi-jacked and posters can be attacked for their opinion (and I do NOT mean you by that). I'm not offended by this post. Defend yourself and your positions. I'm listening... A real pity. This board needs a good moderator, or a new board needs to be created where opinions and theories can be discussed openly without the static. (again this does not pertain to you). See what Cathi said...way better than I could say.. The method as described in my first post works FOR ME. No matter what anyone else says or does, it works for me, and I know that because I AM me. And THAT is what this site is all about. That it works for you is GREAT, you can post that and let us think about it without denigrating what works for others... And MY opinion is that methods for abortion or prevention of cluster headache attacks which do not involve any medication (I include medical O2 in that group) are and should be well preferred over any other method. OK, fine, O2 is just concentrated what we already breath. MY opinion, it aint a med, and is way more benign than ANY med (btw, caffeine is a drug too)... I´m sure we all just love Big Med like Pfizer, heck as far as I know they may even be on this board promoting their products. It sure does feel like it. Now, THAT is bullshit. I don't love any pharmaceutical company, I use what works for me and I will continue to. Doesn't mean I'm in their pocket or that this site is. That kind of statement will cost you any credibility. Rethink it, please... In any case I shared my experience, what the reader does with it is up to him or her ofcourse. Please PM me if you would like help in any way with the abortive technique. Now that there is what it's all about. I've thrown out plenty of stuff that pissed people off...I'm still here...stick around. I wish all the longest of PF times- THANK YOU...and you too...aint nobody deserves this shite...every clusterhead is my brother or sister... Best, Jon

Potter wrote on Jul 28^th, 2008 at 10:52pm:

-johnny- wrote on Jul 28th, 2008 at 10:29pm: great post. since i drive a truck i am limited by how much o2 i can carry. i can't always (if ever) find o2 in rawlings wyoming or sandpoint idaho. although i prefer to be alone during a heavy cycle, i don't like to get too far from an o2 supply. thanks for posting this. you should do a youtube video. ;)    Yep pretty tough.    START PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGE    START PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGE START PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGE START PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGE

lol duh.  i need to get a laptop for the truck! ;D  thanks buddy

George wrote on Jul 21^st, 2008 at 10:59am:

DennisM1045 wrote on Jul 21st, 2008 at 8:27am: This sounds like another variation on the exercise theme.  Many others report relief from jogging or doing pushups.  Whatever diverts blood flow to the extremities and away from the head. Agreed. It's interesting how different our approaches to handling an attack are.   A long time ago, I used to exert myself considerably during an attack (mostly thrashing around, pacing rapidly, pounding on walls, etc.) until I figured out that I was increasing the intensity of the attack by reacting violently to it.   Deliberately engaging in some sort of physical activity during an attack is probably different than what I was doing with all my thrashing.  Mine was more like the "fight or flight" response was triggered, with nowhere to go.  After all, you can't fight with the thing, and you can't run away--so you're left with rapid, shallow breathing, increased muscle tension, and increased blood flow.  All of that is bad during an attack, and seems to make things worse. A lot of the effort I put into fighting the thing nowadays is directed toward controlling my reactions to a hit, calming myself, reducing my anxiety, slowing my heartbeat and breathing, and reducing my physical activity during an attack to near zero.   Nevertheless, I've seen enough people on here who find relief in strenuous exercise during a hit to convince me that for some it is a worthwhile approach.  I couldn't bear it myself. Best wishes, George

George, I couldn't agree more with this.  I do admit using Imitrex when I know about the time a hit will come, but I only use this at work.  At home in the middle of the night like last night. I usually stand straight up and rotate my neck and stretch my arms out for relief.  It definitely sooths and reduces the intensity.  I had the shadow for the rest of the night, but that I can live with and even sleep on till I wake up and it was still there.  I like to meditate in my own way w/o the shaking, screaming, deep breathing etc...  I try to be drug free as much as possible.  My neuro years ago gave me a free treatment of Top and it still sits in the medicine cabinet because i'm afraid of side affects in the long term.  I am a runner and i'm thinking about going out for a short jog next time to see what happens.  I'm all for O2, but I don't have it yet.  I love these threads with natural remedies.  

Thank you all!

Greg wrote on Jul 24^th, 2008 at 2:10pm:

How much is a non rebreather and a tank without insurance? and does anyone know how i could get imitrex for under 240$ for 9 pills (was just perscribed by the doctor today). Thanks and i wish a pain free day to us all.                             Greg

Greg, I feel the pain of this ridiculous price.  Fortunately, my insurance script plan keeps that down and my GP is nice enough to prescribe me 100mg Imitrex which I cut in half and then I have 18 pills.  If you're getting scripts for 50mg, ask for the 100 to save $$$.  

Guys on the subject generic Imitrex and I am sure all of you would shoot me if you could for doing this, but I could not get my prescription refilled and I got online to see if I could find imitrex without a prescription.  I found some Sumatriptan from India, not in the injection from but liquid in nasal spray and I have forgotten but was about a 1/3 the price as Imitrix.  I swear it may work even better, of course it may be pure Yak dung.  Mrs Wishbone found out and won't let me order again for obvious good reason, but I am telling you whatever is in it works.  If you Google Imitrex you have to go over several numbers to find it.  I am not encouraging any one to try this merely pointing out there are some "generic" sumatriptans out there well at least I think there are it may be Yakdungtans.  However, I hope you guys are PF and don't need either the real or generic.  Wishbone

Chad wrote on Aug 14^th, 2008 at 9:50am:

Greg wrote on Jul 24th, 2008 at 2:10pm: How much is a non rebreather and a tank without insurance? and does anyone know how i could get imitrex for under 240$ for 9 pills (was just perscribed by the doctor today). Thanks and i wish a pain free day to us all.                             Greg Greg, I feel the pain of this ridiculous price.  Fortunately, my insurance script plan keeps that down and my GP is nice enough to prescribe me 100mg Imitrex which I cut in half and then I have 18 pills.  If you're getting scripts for 50mg, ask for the 100 to save $$$.

You really need the injections or nasal spray. Trex pills take tooooo long, and I'm generally too wacked out to inject. The spray works good for me, but I go through a box every 3 days, and have to plead with insurance.
When my cycle starts again...hope not)..I'm just going to run around like a crazy chicken ( I think that should count as exercise) and see how it works for me.

Mr. Spaniard,

First off THANKS A MILLION!  

I really don't know where you came up with this pumping exercise, but I said to myself last night, WTF, lets try it.  I had my first CH at 11:30pm last night as I always do.  I did the exercise while pounding a can of Monster.  I was so relieved (in 15 minutes) I almost cried in excitement.  NO shadows either after the attack.  The bizarre thing was I got another attack at 3am.  Went downstairs lifted my arms while standing up while pumping.  Gone in 20 minutes 100%.  I'm a naturalist like you who only resorts to drugs as my last option.  That's why O2 has me interested, but if you stand up rather than sit down screaming with your head in your lap, it really works.  Keep positive thoughts while breathing correctly and I went right back to sleep after the attack.  I tried taking a melatonin pill (only 3mg to start) before bed and didn't expect results till I up the dose to at least 9mg after gradually increasing it.  If your discovery works, I may cancel my neuro appt. all together because he is only going to talk about Vera and Top again which I refuse to go on due to side affects and that I just hate pills.  I want him to prescribe me O2, but I may even back out of that if this continues to work.  I only do Imitrex while in cycle to make it to work.  I'm not as severe as others since I only get 1-3 CH a day.  This pumping though kicks ass!

Thank you so much for this  :)  I don't care what others think, if you're desperate, you'll try anything.

I will let you know how the rest goes.  I'm not out of the woods yet.

Chad wrote on Aug 15^th, 2008 at 7:25am:

I may cancel my neuro appt

in the 20 years of being an episodic clusterhead i've never been to a neuro.

Johnny, your story sounds just like mine. Until this past May. Sure wish I'd done it years ago!

I'm just reiterating how well this pumping technique works.  I highly advise those in desperate need to at least try it.  It may not work for all, but if it even reduces the CH frequency, it's worth it if you don't have O2.  This is the first thing I'll do during a attack when i'm back in cycle.  You can bet i'll pump and pound an energy drink as my first line of defense especially during the night hits when it's too late to use abortive drugs.  

Waking up with a KIP 7 or 8 sucks, so PUMP!